Two people have reportedly died in Iran amid rising protests about high living costs. The unrest has spread across various cities, including Lordegan, Tehran, and Marvdasht. Videos on social media show chaotic scenes, with cars set ablaze as clashes broke out between protesters and security forces.
Protesters are demanding an end to the rule of the supreme leader and some are even calling for a return to monarchy. These protests started after a significant drop in the Iranian currency, which has left many facing increased hardships.
In Lordegan, reports indicate that the deceased were identified as Ahmad Jalil and Sajjad Valamanesh, both of whom rights groups say were protesters. The Iranian state media also mentioned that a member of the Revolutionary Guards was killed, but there’s uncertainty about the circumstances surrounding that death.
On the ground, tensions are palpable. Thirteen police officers and members of the Basij, a paramilitary organization, were injured during the clashes, reportedly due to stone-throwing by protesters.
To mitigate the situation, schools, and universities were closed after a bank holiday was declared—a move interpreted by many as an attempt to silence dissent rather than a genuine energy-saving measure.
These protests are reminiscent of the widespread unrest following the death of Mahsa Amini in 2022, though they have not reached the same scale. President Masoud Pezeshkian has stated that the government will consider the legitimate demands of the protesters. Conversely, the prosecutor general warned of a firm response to any attempts to incite instability.
Historically, Iran has a rich tapestry of protests, each marked by unique causes and demands. Understanding this context can help observers grasp the current unrest’s significance and potential consequences for the Iranian leadership.
In recent reports, around 60% of Iranians feel their financial situation has worsened over the past year, according to a survey carried out by an Iranian economic think tank. This dissatisfaction seems to be fuelling not just protests but a broader sense of urgency for change within the country.
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